Rajapur, Sept 8 (V7N) – Allegations of irregularities have emerged in the “Food Assistance” program conducted by the Department of Food at Saturia Lebubunia Market in Rajapur Upazila. Local dealer Nasir Uddin has been accused of failing to provide the allotted rice to eligible beneficiaries.
 
Under the program, each cardholder is entitled to receive 30 kilograms of rice at Tk 450. However, many beneficiaries report receiving less than their entitled amount. In addition, the storage facilities provided are inadequate, forcing ordinary people to face difficulties while collecting rice.
 
Several beneficiaries claimed, “We are supposed to receive 30 kilograms of rice, but often we get 2–3 kilograms less. We also have to wait in line for hours. The storage conditions are poor, and during rainfall, the rice gets wet.”
 
When asked about the allegations, dealer Nasir Uddin denied any wrongdoing, stating, “Everything is being done according to regulations. No one has received less rice. The rice has not been hoarded or sold elsewhere. Some beneficiaries have not come to collect their rice, and their mobile phones are switched off. Certain groups are conspiring against me, and the authorities have been informed.”
 
Meanwhile, another dealer in Amtala area, Ekram Hossain Mithu, has been accused of storing rice improperly and using rooms not designated for distribution. Mithu defended his actions, saying, “The storage room is small and low-lying. Due to rain, we had to use an adjacent room. The authorities have been informed.”
 
Shahnaz Parvin, Upazila Food Controller, said, “Storing rice elsewhere or using unauthorized rooms is not allowed. If beneficiaries receive less rice or if any irregularity is proven, appropriate action will be taken.”
 
The Department of Food has assured that investigations will continue and that measures will be taken to ensure proper distribution of rice to all eligible beneficiaries.
 
END/AIJ/SMA/